A lasting legacy: Betty White Challenge inspires people to give back

HIBBING, MN -- People across the country celebrated what would have been Betty White’s 100th birthday by giving back on Monday.

The “Betty White Challenge” encouraged people to donate money to their local animal shelter.

White was known for her love of animals.

Minnesota Philanthropist Becky Pohlad and her German Shepherd once had the opportunity to meet White.

“She was as darling as anybody said she was, and all she really cared about was that dog,” said Pohlad.

Pohlad believes the challenge is the perfect way to honor White’s legacy.

“I love today that so many humane societies across the nation are honoring her. People are jumping right in to support this wonderful lady that really cared about animals,” she said.

Pohlad herself took part in the challenge Monday, matching each dollar up to $5,000 donated to Range Regional Animal Rescue in Hibbing.

“It’s a big thing that helps people get incentivized to donate, because instead of saying ‘Oh here’s 5,000 dollars,’ it’s ‘Here’s 5,000, plus whatever those people match,’” said Jared Peterson, with Range Regional Animal Rescue.

According to Peterson, much of that money will help pay for veterinary bills.

The shelter occasionally receives animals that need medical treatment, and the cost of their operations can raise adoption fees.

Peterson said these donations can help lower the cost of adoption.

He believes events like the Betty White Challenge do a lot of good for the visibility of their animals.

“It gets people looking at animal shelters and it gets those animals seen, too, just the event itself,” said Peterson.

Pohlad hopes the event can both raise awareness and put a bit of good into the world.

“I do hope she’s looking down on us all and sees how her passion for animals has made us feel really good about ourselves,” said Pohlad.

Range Regional Animal Rescue received more than $9,000 in donations through the challenge.

Most shelters accept donations year-round.

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